The legacy initiative will look to use the tournament as a catalyst to develop the game of Rugby League

The Rugby League World Cup 2021 (RLWC2021) has launched a legacy programme, which looks to use the tournament, to be hosted in England, as a catalyst to develop the game of rugby league and "engage with the widest possible audience".

Called ‘Inspired by 2021’, the programme comprises three key strands: volunteers, facilities and community engagement.

The first ‘Inspired by 2021’ initiative to get underway will be the International Development Programme, delivered in partnership with UK Sport and the Rugby League International Federation.

The project is designed to grow the game at all levels in developing rugby league nations across the globe.

There will be a gradual rollout of each of the ‘Inspired by 2021’ programmes, including the biggest volunteer workforce project that the sport has seen, a funded community facility project along with cultural, heritage, public health, education and participation initiatives.

“Our legacy programme will be far reaching as we aim to engage with people in different ways," said Jon Dutton, Chief Executive of the RLWC 2021.

"Our aim is that the programme transcends the sport and acts as a springboard not only for Rugby League but also for the wider social benefit.

“The International Development Programme is the first initiative to launch, and I am confident it will have a great impact over the next three years and beyond.

“Our goal is to make the 2021 tournament the best ever Rugby League World Cup and this new platform is an ideal way of inspiring children and adults alike and helping to grow the sport globally.”